Implementing the Baseline Survey

The baseline survey for the Rupantar project was conducted to help us better understand how diversification of smallholder food systems can be planned and implemented in the Eastern Gangetic Plains (EGP) for improved livelihoods, equity, nutrition, and resource sustainability.

The survey covered six nodes/communities in each of the regions in coordination with local partners in Koshi Province (Nepal), CoochBehar, (India) and Rangpur (Bangladesh). Approximately 600 farmers were interviewed in each location, with a total of 1800 interviews covering the region. Data was collected and recorded digitally on tablets and mobile phones using Kobo collect. A pool of trained enumerators hired by CIMMYT and overseen and guided by CIMMYT team throughout the period collected data in local languages after getting consent from the randomly selected farmer respondents. The survey questionnaire included questions related to the current livelihood context, constraints, opportunities, and past experiences of the farmers.

The baseline survey will act as the evidence base to guide interventions under the Rupantar project, informing diversification pathways to be implemented later in the year. By understanding the current state of smallholder food systems, the project can identify appropriate interventions for scaling, aligned with viable technical options for smallholders, and supported by appropriate policies and sustainable resource use. It will also provide a better understanding of the diversity of food systems in the EGP, where and how diversified systems have been implemented in the past, and what lessons can be learned for scaling, policy, and sustainability. The data will be analyzed to identify key insights and patterns related to the current state of smallholder food systems in the EGP and share with the stakeholders, including local communities, policymakers, and other relevant organizations.